How to Apply to Universities in Denmark (2025) | exploringdenmark
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How to Apply to Universities in Denmark (2025)

International student? Use this step-by-step to choose a program, apply through the right portal, hit the deadlines, and get your student visa sorted.

Tip: Bachelor applications go via Optagelse.dk. Master’s are usually direct to the university. Deadlines cluster Jan–Mar for autumn intake.

Overview

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Open to internationals

Bachelor, Master’s and PhD options in English at most universities.

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Key deadlines

Bachelor: 15 March. Master’s: typically 1 Jan–15 Mar (check uni pages).

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Fees & scholarships

EU/EEA often free. Non-EU pay tuition; merit scholarships exist.

Entry requirements

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Academic background

Upper-secondary (for bachelor) or bachelor’s degree (for master’s), recognized in Denmark.

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Language

IELTS/TOEFL/etc. for English-taught programs; some programs require Danish.

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Documents

Transcripts, diploma, passport, CV, motivation letter; some need references/portfolio.

How to apply: step-by-step

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Find programs: Browse Study in Denmark and university sites.
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Check criteria: Entry requirements, language scores, and special prerequisites.
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Prepare docs: Transcripts, tests, CV, motivation, references, portfolio (if needed).
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Apply online: Bachelor via Optagelse.dk; Master’s via university portals.
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Pay fees (non-EU): Some universities require application fees; tuition after admission.
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Decision & accept: Bachelor results in July; Master’s typically May–June. Accept offer promptly.
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Get student visa: Apply for residence permit via SIRI.
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Plan arrival: Orientation, housing, CPR number, bank account, and MitID after arrival.

After you apply

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Student housing

Apply early for dorms/kollegier or search reputable sites and uni lists.

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Registration

On arrival: register address & get CPR; health card follows by post.

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Student life

Join intro weeks, student unions and international societies.

Useful resources

Frequently asked questions

📅 Deadlines?

Bachelor: 15 March (autumn start). Master’s: Jan–Mar typical—confirm on each university page.

🗣️ Danish required?

Not for most English programs. Some degrees require Danish; check the listing.

💰 Tuition fees?

EU/EEA & exchange: usually free. Non-EU: ~45–120k DKK/year; scholarships available.

🧪 English tests?

IELTS/TOEFL/Cambridge commonly accepted. Minimum scores vary by program.

🛂 Visa need?

Non-EU/EEA need a residence permit (student). EU/EEA register on arrival.

🏠 Housing tips?

Apply early for dorms; beware of scams and never pay via gift cards/crypto.